Thomas, Dragic lead Suns over Hornets, 111-106

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Goran Dragic said he hates to miss any game.

He said the angst is even worse when his team is in the midst of a losing streak.

Reserve Isaiah Thomas scored 23 points, Dragic returned from a two-game hiatus due to a strained back and had 20, and the Phoenix Suns snapped a six-game skid with a 111-106 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night.

“Tonight was an important win for us,” said a relieved Dragic. “We were close in some games, but you start doubting yourself.”

Dragic played 38 minutes in his first physical activity in four days. He said by the fourth quarter he could barely feel his legs.

It’s a good thing the Suns had Thomas to help carry the load down the stretch with Dragic dragging and Markieff Morris out of the game after being ejected in the third quarter for arguing with officials.

Thomas registered his eighth 20-point game of the season, shooting 7 of 13 from the field as Phoenix erased a 17-point, first-half deficit. Thomas had 12 points on 4-of-5 shooting in the fourth quarter.